Seiko Prospex (Ref. SLA033) "Captain Willard" Limited Edition Reissue, 2019

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Seiko’s archives are full of iconic and celebrated dive watch designs, but few are more beloved and pursued by collectors than the classic ref. 6105. A favorite among military personnel during the golden era of the mechanical tool watch, and famously worn by Martin Sheen in the 1979 film Apocalypse Now , the Seiko 6105 is best known by its “Captain Willard” nickname, but this historic Seiko dive watch also has a rich history that includes everything from scuba diving to arctic exploration. In 2019, Seiko revived the classic ref. 6105 but reimagined it with the very best of today’s modern materials and manufacturing techniques. Known as the Seiko SLA033, this contemporary interpretation of the classic “Captain Willard” was created as a limited edition of 2,500 pieces and it is hand-assembled in the Seiko Shizukuishi Watch Studio, where mechanical Grand Seiko and Credor watches are produced. Additionally, it features the Cal. 8L35 movement (a level of caliber normally found only in Grand Seiko models), along with a sapphire crystal and a Zaratsu polished bezel. All told, the Seiko SLA033 is an incredibly premium take on the brand’s classic ref. 6105 diver and it showcases the legendary Japanese manufacturer’s capabilities when it truly commits itself to creating a high-end professional dive watch. Stock # SKOPSLA033 Brand Seiko Style Diver Model SLA033 Serial 1006/2500 Size Men's Material Stainless Steel Dial Black Millimeters 45 Bracelet Seiko 2pc Rubber Strap CASE & BRACELET The stainless steel case of the Seiko SLA033 is in immaculate condition and measures slightly larger than the original version at 45mm in diameter. Additionally, the case is treated with what Seiko calls a “super hard coating” that shields its surfaces from the marks and scratches of daily life. Just like the vintage Seiko ref. 6105, the new SLA033 features the model’s signature asymmetric cushion-shaped case, which includes an integrated crown guard that protrudes to protect the winding crown located at 4 o’clock. Completing the watch is a black silicone strap that features the same “waffle” pattern found on vintage Seiko rubber straps from the 1970s. DIAL & HANDS The matte black dial is in pristine condition and free from any marks or signs of aging. Additionally, while the SLA033 is part of Seiko’s Prospex collection, its dial remains true to the original version and lacks the Prospex ‘X’ logo, which is now present on the vast majority of the other models from the brand’s line of professional sports watches. As you would expect from a contemporary Seiko dive watch that was manufactured within the last several years, the luminous material on the hands and hour markers is the brand’s own LumiBright formula and they glow brightly in response to light exposure. ACCESSORIES